Connect with us

News

All weather pitches could be banned by the EU

Published

on

0257892_seankellythumbnail.jpg

Sean Kelly, MEP for Ireland South, has voiced his concerns over the European Commission's proposal to ban the use of microplastics in sports fields, cosmetics, and cleaning products.

While acknowledging the negative environmental impact of microplastics, Kelly emphasizes the need for a “balanced approach that considers the socio-economic consequences and the interests of sports in communities”.

The European Commission's proposal specifically targets the use of microplastics derived from old tyre as infill on artificial sports surfaces, including those used for football, hockey, GAA, and rugby training facilities.

The increased usage of old tyres in artificial turf can be attributed, in part, to the ban on landfilling scrap tires in the EU.

However, a ban on their use in sports pitches would pose challenges for the EU recycling industry, as the leftover rubber would not be easily absorbed.

“This would likely result in more tires being exported beyond the EU for incineration, leading to increased emissions and further environmental damage”, said Kelly.

Kelly acknowledged that microplastics pollution caused by artificial sports pitches is significantly less than that generated by the manufacturing and use of new tires on the road. He highlights that the proposed ban “would impact up to 2,500 artificial pitches in Ireland alone and tens of thousands of surfaces across the EU, affecting sports clubs, schools, communities, colleges, and universities.”

In Irish football, for instance, there are approximately 600 all-weather full-sized pitches attached to soccer clubs, along with thousands of smaller facilities in communities, schools, and colleges.

The cost of constructing a full-sized facility currently ranges from €400,000 to €600,000, a figure that would substantially increase if environmentally-friendly alternatives, such as coconut shell, hemp, or cork, were mandated.

However, these options may not be feasible or sustainable and may not be suitable for cooler climates.

Advertisement

News

Funding Imminent for Fitzgerald Stadium Development

The long-awaited development of Fitzgerald Stadium is set to take a major step forward, with an announcement on further funding expected imminently, according to Kerry Fianna Fáil TD Michael Cahill. […]

Published

on

The long-awaited development of Fitzgerald Stadium is set to take a major step forward, with an announcement on further funding expected imminently, according to Kerry Fianna Fáil TD Michael Cahill.

Deputy Cahill said the project must not be allowed to stall, urging that momentum be maintained as it moves into its next phase.
“The proposed development of Fitzgerald Stadium in Killarney needs to be moved on now and not allowed to fall behind in its planned progression,” he stated, adding that he is confident of a positive funding decision soon.
Cahill has raised the Fitzgerald Stadium Development Plan in Dáil Éireann with several senior government figures, including An Taoiseach Micheál Martin and the Minister for Justice, Jim O’Callaghan.
“They are well versed in the detail of it, and I feel that we are going to get a positive announcement shortly on further funding for this crucial project for Kerry,” he said.
The proposed upgrades to the iconic stadium are seen as a key development not only for Killarney, but for the entire county. The venue would be able to host major sporting events and large-scale entertainment such as concerts featuring world-renowned performers.
“Kerry as a whole will benefit from having such a facility in Killarney,” said Cahill. “Hospitality providers of all hues and in all parts of Kerry will gain additional business when the Fitzgerald Stadium Development is completed.”
He also praised the application submitted by the Kerry County Board, calling it “fantastic” and deserving of support. “This will be a massive boost for Killarney and the entire county, will significantly increase footfall and will be great for the local economy. I believe that Fitzgerald Stadium will secure major funding under the IIP scheme in the very near future,” he said.

Continue Reading

News

Fossa roadworks concerns realised

Predictions made by elected members of the Killarney Municipal District (KMD) regarding the Fossa roadworks have come to fruition this week. A video has surfaced showing a local farmer driving […]

Published

on

Predictions made by elected members of the Killarney Municipal District (KMD) regarding the Fossa roadworks have come to fruition this week.

A video has surfaced showing a local farmer driving a tractor with a hay turner encountering a French-registered camper van in the village.
The footage shows very little space for the two vehicles to pass each other.
Concerns have been raised that if a camper van, which is similar in size to an ambulance, struggled to pass, it could create significant issues for emergency vehicles needing to use the road.
The ongoing major roadworks in Fossa were previously the subject of heated discussion at a Killarney Municipal District Council meeting.
At that time, councillors were warned about potential gridlock and traffic problems due to the narrowed road width. It was highlighted that with the road being just six metres wide and large vehicles measuring up to 3.5 metres, encounters could lead to “complete gridlock and traffic mayhem.”
Despite these warnings, council officials had stated that the construction work was too far advanced to make changes. The recent video validates the earlier concerns raised by elected members.

Continue Reading

Last News

Sport